SUN CITY CENTER – When aging seniors who live alone need help with their personal care, everyday chores, meal planning, transportation and more, keeping them in their homes can become a challenge – and that’s where Hanson Services can help.

“We’re Sun City Center’s first and oldest in-home care provider,” said 12-year administrator Georgana Collins, a licensed practical nurse for 43 years. “Our entire purpose is to keep people safely in their homes – not at a home – and we’ve been doing it for 15 years.”

The privately owned company, which has four offices, was started in 1996 by Mary Ann Hanson of Cleveland, Ohio. Its staff of certified nursing assistants and in-home care assistants fully understand the adult aging process, especially as it pertains to seniors and their special needs. All are carefully screened, trained, insured and bonded and covered for workers compensation.

The staff provides anywhere from two to 24 hours and service, one to seven days a week.

CNA Monica Bostich visits Rosemary Figueroa at her Apollo Beach home in Caribbean Isles four times per week. She fixes Figueroa’s breakfast and lunch, makes sure she takes her medications, performs light chores and provides companionship. The two women have become friends.

“It’s wonderful (having her),” Figueroa said. “She’s a very good person; she’s very easy to get along with; and she’s a big help. I don’t have to tell her what to do; she works independently. I wish I could have her here all the time.”

Bostich looks forward to seeing her each week.

“I love doing this job,” she said. “We don’t get rich by doing this, but I enjoy visiting clients and working with them. It’s a real partnership.”

And for the adult children of seniors needing such care, Hanson Services is a godsend.

“The peace of mind I have knowing Monica is there with my mother-in-law, Gladys, is immeasureable,” said American Momentum Bank Vice President Charlotte Clark of Gibsonton. “I know she’s safe, has a companion, and I never have to worry. I’m so grateful.”

Hanson Services recently lowered its hourly rates to be able to reach more people, Collins said.

“That’s what is good about small business,” she added. “We can be more flexible with our rates and the services we provide, which makes us more responsive to our clients’ needs.”